Sometimes I wonder about critics when they pan films and books that sell well. I have never read any of Dan Brown’s popular conspiracy books or seen the first film based on his runaway bestseller, The DaVinci Code. Angels and Demons was slated so badly, I wondered if I was wise even bothering to go and see it. Perhaps you too are in two minds about going to see it. Well, don’t hesitate. Go and see it.

Mind you, you may have to disengage your mind to allow for the preposterous plot as our hero and his comely companion careen around Rome searching for clues to save the lives of four kidnapped Catholic cardinals and prevent the evil ancient Illuminati from blowing up half of Rome and all the remaining Catholic cardinals gathered together in conclave to select a new pope.

The film has an oblique local angle, as one of the prominent characters is an Ulster born priest. Some violent scenes are extremely graphic, though. I can’t imagine how director Ron Howard got away with a 12A certificate. It’s an enjoyable romp through Rome but leave the kids at home. You might traumatise the more sensitive ones for life.